The recent record-breaking heat in Texas has sparked concerns about the state’s ability to keep the lights on as demand for electricity exceeds the capacity to generate it. Fortunately, the grid has been able to meet demand without interruption so far this summer and ERCOT expects to do so in the weeks ahead. But with triple-digit temperatures forecast for the rest of the summer, it’s a good idea to take steps to lower your energy use and save on electric rates now.
The texas electricity market is deregulated, meaning you have the option power to choose texas your own retail electric provider (REP). When shopping for a plan, it’s important to consider the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour as well as any other charges and fees, such as monthly service fees or renewable energy surcharges. Also, look for plan length and contract terms when comparing options. Also, keep in mind that REPs can charge early termination fees if you switch before your contract expires.
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, check customer reviews and ratings to see how satisfied customers are with each provider. Then, compare electricity plans to find the one that works best for your household. It’s also a good idea to read the Electricity Facts Label on each plan to understand its details, like kWh price per month and recurring charges. Finally, look for a provider that offers renewable energy plans to help you make a more sustainable choice for your home.
REPs have a variety of electricity plans to offer, including fixed-rate and variable-rate options. Fixed-rate plans lock in the kWh price per month for the life of your contract, protecting you from market fluctuations and making it easier to budget your electricity costs.
In addition to traditional energy sources, REPs offer a range of green electricity plans that allow you to support renewable energy. These plans are supported by Renewable Energy Certificates, which confirm that a megawatt-hour of electricity was generated from an eligible renewable resource, such as wind or solar.
In the past, Texas was a leader in coal power, but with the closure of three coal-fired plants and the rapid growth of wind, natural gas has become the largest source of electricity generation in the state. In 2022, it’s projected that renewable sources will account for about 30 percent of Texas’s total electricity supply. That number could rise even further as more wind and solar farms are built in the state.